Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the warmth of a hearty soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a deliciously creamy texture and savory taste that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a cozy meal after a long day, Easy Cheeseburger Soup delivers on flavor and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of bacon, beef, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like pickles or extra cheese to enhance the flavor even more.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with potatoes and protein, this soup will keep you full and satisfied.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it an ideal meal for families.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth cooking. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot
• Kitchen shears
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot: A sturdy soup pot allows for even cooking and simmering, essential for developing rich flavors.
• Kitchen shears: These are perfect for quickly cutting bacon into small pieces without any mess.
• Wooden spoon: This tool is great for stirring without scratching your pot and helps break up ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 5 pieces of bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup onion (diced)
• 2 sticks celery (diced)
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 6 tablespoons flour

For the Broth and Creaminess

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Hearty Elements

• 1 lb Yukon potatoes (peeled & diced small)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Seasonings

• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup pickles diced (optional)

How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by using kitchen shears to cut the bacon into small pieces. Cook it in a soup pot over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels while leaving the fat in the pot.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the same pot. Cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat and place the beef on another paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Melt butter in the pot, then add diced onion and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they soften.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Flour

Mix in minced garlic along with flour. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes while stirring continuously to eliminate any raw flour taste.

Step 5: Whisk in Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth until fully dissolved with no lumps remaining. The mixture should be smooth at this point.

Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, diced potatoes, and return cooked beef to the pot. Increase heat to high until boiling, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover slightly ajar to maintain a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Simmer Until Tender

Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Add Cheese

Turn off heat and gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese. If too thick, adjust consistency by adding more chicken broth or cream as needed.

Step 9: Final Touches

Stir in most of the cooked bacon (saving some for garnish). Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as necessary. You may also mix in chopped pickles or use them as a topping when serving.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Cheeseburger Soup!

How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. This combination enhances the flavor and texture experience.

Topped with Additional Ingredients

• Consider adding extra toppings like crispy bacon, diced pickles, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This personal touch can customize each bowl.

In Bread Bowls

• Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation. It makes for an impressive serving style that guests will love.

Accompanied by Salad

• A fresh green salad on the side helps balance the richness of the soup. Choose light dressings to maintain harmony in flavors.

Perfect for Game Day

• Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup during game day gatherings. It’s filling and satisfying, ensuring your guests will enjoy every bite.

As Part of a Potluck Spread

• Bring this soup to potlucks as it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its hearty nature makes it a welcome addition to any spread.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Easy Cheeseburger Soup

To achieve the best version of Easy Cheeseburger Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and quality beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Thickness: If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is classic, try mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavors.
• Spice It Up: For added flavor, incorporate spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper to give your soup a little kick.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit after cooking can enhance the flavors as they meld together.
• Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes like chives or croutons to add visual appeal and extra crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing side dishes with Easy Cheeseburger Soup can create a balanced meal that satisfies all appetites. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the soup’s richness and adds a delicious crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides freshness and a crisp contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a healthy side that adds color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with savory soup, providing a delightful textural contrast.
5. French Fries: Crispy French fries are always a hit and can be dipped into the cheeseburger soup for extra enjoyment.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and meat make for a hearty side dish that complements the main course well.
7. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are easy to make and provide an excellent side option that echoes the flavors of the soup.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, making it an excellent accompaniment to rich cheeseburger soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Cheeseburger Soup is straightforward, but avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the bacon: Not using bacon will miss that essential flavor. Always start with crispy bacon for richness.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you let the potatoes boil too long, they can become mushy. Cook them just until tender to maintain texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper for a flavorful finish.
• Using low-quality cheese: Subpar cheese won’t melt well and can affect the soup’s creaminess. Choose sharp cheddar for the best results.
• Rushing the simmering process: Skipping or hurrying this step can lead to uneven cooking. Let it simmer gently to blend the flavors perfectly.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Cheeseburger Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Easy Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Easy Cheeseburger Soup:

Can I make Easy Cheeseburger Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better when made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What can I add to my Easy Cheeseburger Soup?

Feel free to customize with extras like diced tomatoes, corn, or different cheeses based on your preference.

How do I thicken Easy Cheeseburger Soup?

If your soup is too thin, simmer it longer uncovered or mix in more cheese or flour to achieve your desired consistency.

Can I substitute ground beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as alternatives while keeping it leaner.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for any dinner table. Its creamy texture combined with savory flavors makes it a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your preferred add-ins like vegetables or different cheeses for added variety!